This project explored the feasibility of implementing hydroelectric turbine systems in wastewater treatment facilities in Massachusetts. An inventory of treatment plant information was obtained, and the Upper Blackstone Water Pollution Abatement District in Millbury, MA was selected for a case study analysis. Based on flow and head data, 19.9 kW of power could be produced, generating 1.1% of the facility's electricity needs; however, the available head was slightly below the turbine specifications. Payback periods were calculated to determine hydropower feasibility for other Massachusetts plants, and 30.9% were potentially feasible based on flow but depending on head.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Capua, Marissa Rose
• Dzwonkoski, Jessica
• Harris, Christopher David

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-031014-202035

Advisor

• Plummer, Jeanine D.

Year

• 2014

Date created

• 2014-03-10

Ort

• Millbury

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Environmental Engineering
• Civil Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright